By Michael A. Smith, MD

Osteoporosis, defined as a reduction of bone mass or bone density, was long viewed as a disease unique to aging women.

It’s been treated primarily with conjugated horse estrogens in hopes of mitigating the decline in female hormone levels that occurs during menopause.

Sadly, much of what conventional wisdom held true about osteoporosis turns out to be flawed.

It’s now clear that osteoporosis (like many age-related conditions) isnota disease with a singular cause affecting a specific population.

Rather, it is a multi-faceted disease driven by a barrage of interrelated factors, and must be addressed as such for optimal prevention and treatment.

Oxidative Stress Increases Bone Loss

Highly reactive oxygen compounds, called free radicals, can damage cells and tissues. Oxidative stress is the build-up of these dangerous compounds over time.

It’s now been theorized that high levels of oxidative stress during menopause may actually damage bone-forming cells resulting in bone demineralization. But why does menopause cause high levels of oxidative stress?

Experimental research in animals and cell cultures suggests that the characteristic fall in estradiol during menopause might contribute to the rise in highly reactive oxygen compounds — or oxidative stress.

A study published in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine suggests an association between age-related loss of estradiol, the development of higher levels of oxidative stress and subsequent bone loss.1

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. You should not stop taking any medication without first consulting your physician.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. You should not stop taking any medication without first consulting your physician.